Passage along the Rhone

Post me the brochure

Exploring any country by river provides the traveller with an extra insight, understanding and lasting memory. This is particularly true of France where Mother Nature has provided the most perfect means of observing a great swathe of the country and as we meander along the scenic Rhone we will explore one of her loveliest corners. The Rhone, dubbed the ‘River of Angels’ by Robert Louis Stevenson, offers a passage through history past great architectural treasures, through some truly wonderful scenery and an ever-changing countryside dotted with cypress, umbrella pine and vines.

Our programme combines excursions ashore to nearby towns and sites as well as time at leisure, so you can truly relax and experience all that the region has to offer. There will be the opportunity to explore France’s gastronomic capital Lyon and visit Avignon, the great City of Popes which boasts a number of splendid museums, churches and palaces. We will also discover some of the many impressive Roman sites including the amphitheatre at Arles, the Roman theatre of Orange and the magnificent Pont du Gard. But, no trip to Provence would be complete without visiting the surrounding countryside and we will visit the Ardeche Gorges as well as some of the surrounding hillside villages. All this will be accomplished with ease from the comfort of the delightful MS Camargue.

Useful links & Travel Advice

Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.

Camargue

For our voyages along the Rhone we have chartered the delightful MS Camargue from our associates at Croisi-Europe. The vessel accommodates just 104 passengers and offers elegant and spacious public areas and comfortable and well appointed cabins. She is a charming vessel and joining you on board will be a Noble Caledonia team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager and Guest Speaker.

Itinerary

Day 1 London to Lyon, France.

Fly by scheduled flight to Lyon or travel by train from London St Pancras. Upon arrival transfer to the MS Camargue and embark. Meet your fellow travellers this evening during welcome drinks and dinner. The ship will moor overnight in Lyon.

Day 2 Lyon.

Today begins with a guided tour of the old part of the city, including the amazingly decorated 19th century hilltop Basilica of Notre Dame. Take a walk through the ‘Halles de Lyon’, a famous food market where renowned chefs are often spotted selecting their ingredients. The afternoon is free to wander past the shops and cafes on the banks of the Saone, or perhaps visit the marvellous fabric museum (Musee Historique des Tissus), the equally fascinating Musee des Beaux-Arts, housed in a 17th century Benedictine Abbey, or the modern Musee des Confluences located at the southern tip of the Presqu’île at the confluence of the Rhone and the Saone. Sail south to Vienne during dinner.

Day 3 Vienne.

We will spend this morning in the fine Roman town of Vienne, beautifully located in the Rhone Valley and surrounded by hills. On our walking tour, we will learn about its Roman era with a visit to the Temple of Augustus & Livia and the Roman theatre located in the centre of town. Also visit the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral St Maurice. Relax on board this afternoon as we continue sailing south.

Day 4 Ardeche Gorges & Chateau Grignan.

This morning we will visit the Ardeche Gorges with its magnificent scenery, most notably the spectacular limestone cliffs and the Pont d’Arc, the largest natural arch in Europe. We will also stop at a lavender museum where we will learn about the secrets of the flower and its culinary, medicinal and cosmetic uses. Return to the ship for lunch after which we will drive Grignan. A charming hillside village, Grignan was made famous by Madame de Sevigne in her letters. Here we will visit a truffle farm where we will have the chance to taste some of these local delicacies. Continue to Chateau de Grignan which, originally built in the 11th century, was transformed into a luxurious residence during the Renaissance.

Day 5 Orange & Chateauneuf du Pape.

This morning we have a half day tour of Orange, site of the greatest of all Roman theatres to survive in the West. The magnificent, semicircular Theatre Antique, situated in the centre of town, was built just before the birth of Christ. Accommodating 7000 spectators, its acoustics are superb. This is also the only Roman theatre still possessing its original Imperial statue of Caesar Augustus, which, at 12 feet in height, is one of the tallest in existence. After lunch on the ship we will enjoy a wine tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape, an area renowned for its rich ruby reds.

Day 6 Pont du Gard & Uzes.

Today we will drive to Pont du Gard, the impressive Roman aqueduct built in the first century as part of a system to bring water to Uzes and Nimes. Later, continue to historic Uzes, a gem of a town with a captivating history and some imposing and very beautiful buildings including the castle of the Ducs d’Uzes. This afternoon we will sail to Avignon. Perhaps enjoy an evening stroll through the narrow streets inside the Medieval walls.

Day 7 Avignon & Abbaye Saint-Andre.

The great City of the Popes boasts a number of splendid museums, churches and palaces. Our guided walking tour will include the Palais des Papes, one of the wonders of Provence and the largest and most important Medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. We will also visit the Cathedral and famous Pont Benezet, a bridge that spans the Rhone between Villeneuve les Avignon and Avignon. After lunch on board, we will visit Abbaye Saint-Andre’s beautiful gardens with its Florentine inspiration and excellent views of Avignon and the Rhone Valley. The Abbey is located atop the hill known as Mont Andaon and now lies within the impressive Saint Andre fortress.

Day 8 Arles.

Our final morning will be spent exploring Arles. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Arles sits on a low hill where the Rhone river branches in two parts to the sea. The town dates back to the 7th century BC and was a major Gallo-Roman city. The Roman sites are unique in that they are integrated into the houses and buildings of the town. During our walking tour we will see the huge amphitheatre and the former Cathedral of St Trophime, a Romanesque Basilica constructed in the 12th century. After lunch on the ship, enjoy some free time before we sail upstream to Avignon. This evening join your fellow travellers for farewell drinks and dinner.

Day 9 Avignon to London.

Disembark this morning and transfer to Marseille or Nice airport for the return scheduled flight to London, or travel by train to London St Pancras.

24 May 2020 Itinerary

Day 1 London to Avignon, France.

Fly by scheduled flight to Marseille or Nice airport or travel by train from London St Pancras. Upon arrival transfer to the MS Camargue and embark. Meet your fellow travellers this evening during welcome drinks and dinner. The ship will moor overnight in Avignon.

Day 2 Avignon & Abbaye Saint-Andre.

The great City of the Popes boasts a number of splendid museums, churches and palaces. Our guided walking tour will include the Palais des Papes, one of the wonders of Provence and the largest and most important Medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. We will also visit the cathedral and famous Pont Benezet, a bridge that spans the Rhone between Villeneuve les Avignon and Avignon. After lunch on board, we will visit Abbaye Saint-Andre’s beautiful gardens with its Florentine inspiration and excellent views of Avignon and the Rhone Valley. The Abbey is located atop the hill known as Mont Andaon and now lies within the impressive Saint Andre fortress.

Day 3 Arles.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Arles sits on a low hill where the Rhone river branches in two parts to the sea. The town dates back to the 7th century BC and was a major Gallo-Roman city. The Roman sites are unique in that they are integrated into the houses and buildings of the town. During our walking tour we will see the huge amphitheatre and the former Cathedral of St Trophime, a Romanesque Basilica constructed in the 12th century. After lunch on the ship, enjoy some free time before we sail upstream this evening.

Day 4 Pont du Gard, Uzes & Chateauneuf du Pape.

Today we will drive to Pont du Gard, the impressive Roman aqueduct built in the first century as part of a system to bring water to Uzes and Nimes. Later, continue to historic Uzes, a gem of a town with a captivating history and some imposing and very beautiful buildings including the castle of the Ducs d’Uzes. After lunch on the ship we will enjoy a wine tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape, an area renowned for its rich ruby reds.

Day 5 Orange.

This morning we have a half day tour of Orange, site of the greatest of all Roman theatres to survive in the West. The magnificent, semicircular Theatre Antique, situated in the centre of town, was built just before the birth of Christ. Accommodating 7000 spectators, its acoustics are superb. This is also the only Roman theatre still possessing its original Imperial statue of Caesar Augustus, which, at 12 feet in height, is one of the tallest in existence. Later on we sail to Viviers and enjoy some free time in this charming location.

Day 6 Ardeche Gorges & Chateau Grignan.

This morning we will visit the Ardeche Gorges with its magnificent scenery, most notably the spectacular limestone cliffs and the Pont d’Arc, the largest natural arch in Europe. We will also stop at a lavender museum where we will learn about the secrets of the flower and its culinary, medicinal and cosmetic uses. Return to the ship for lunch after which we will drive to Grignan. A charming hillside village, Grignan was made famous by Madame de Sevigne in her letters. Here we will visit a truffle farm where we will have the chance to taste some of these local delicacies. Continue to Chateau de Grignan which, originally built in the 11th century, was transformed into a luxurious residence during the Renaissance.

Day 7 Vienne.

We will spend this morning in the fine Roman town of Vienne, beautifully located in the Rhone Valley and surrounded by hills. On our walking tour, we will learn about its Roman era with a visit to the Temple of Augustus & Livia and the Roman theatre located in the centre of town. Also visit the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral St Maurice. Relax on board this afternoon as we continue sailing north.

Day 8 Lyon.

Today begins with a guided tour of the old part of the city, including the amazingly decorated 19th century hilltop Basilica of Notre Dame. Take a walk through the ‘Halles de Lyon’, a famous food market where renowned chefs are often spotted selecting their ingredients. The afternoon is free to wander past the shops and cafes on the banks of the Saone, or perhaps visit the marvellous fabric museum (Musee Historique des Tissus), the equally fascinating Musee des Beaux-Arts, housed in a 17th century Benedictine Abbey, or the modern Musee des Confluences located at the southern tip of the Presqu’île at the confluence of the Rhone and the Saone. This evening join your fellow travellers for farewell drinks and dinner.

Day 9 Lyon to London.

Disembark this morning and transfer to Lyon airport for the return scheduled flight to London, or travel by train to London St Pancras.

NB. The transfer time between Avignon and Marseille airport is 1 hour and 15 minutes, and between Avignon and Nice airport is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

All Decks

Camargue

For our voyages along the Rhone we have chartered the delightful MS Camargue from our associates at Croisi-Europe. The vessel accommodates just 104 passengers and offers elegant and spacious public areas and comfortable and well appointed cabins. She is a charming vessel and joining you on board will be a Noble Caledonia team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager and Guest Speaker.

The vessel has a total of 54 cabins, comprising of 50 twin bedded cabins and four single cabins with a double bed. All are attractively furnished and feature cable TV, safe, hairdryer, individual air-conditioning and heating controls, ample storage and a dressing table. Twin cabins measure 14 square metres and single cabins measure 9 square metres. Cabins on the Main Deck feature large picture windows which can be opened and those on the Upper Deck feature French Balcony style (floor to ceiling) sliding windows, allowing you to admire the passing scenery from your cabin.

The friendly onboard staff will provide you with excellent service and do much to contribute to your enjoyment throughout your journey. You will find yourself amongst like-minded guests in an English speaking environment and the atmosphere onboard is relaxed and informal with a comfortable and casual dress code. A daily briefing by the Cruise Director will provide you with information on the next day’s activities and expert English speaking guides will accompany you on the included excursions. In addition you will be accompanied by a Guest Speaker who will provide entertaining and informative talks.

The elegant restaurant is located on the Upper Deck and seats all guests in one sitting in an open seating arrangement. Breakfast is a buffet service with hot and cold dishes on offer and lunch includes two or three courses served to the table in addition to a buffet selection of breads, pasta, salads, cheese and fruit. Dinner is a four course affair and served to your table. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner, and tea and coffee are available in the lounge from 6.00 am to midnight daily.

Public areas aboard the MS Camargue are both elegantly furnished and spacious. The lounge on the Upper Deck is a relaxing environment in which to admire the passing scenery, socialise and enjoy a drink from the bar and it is here that the resident musician will entertain after a day of exploration. There is also a spacious Sun Deck on board with comfortable deck furniture, the perfect place to relax and appreciate the passing scenery whilst cruising along the Rhone. In addition, there is a small souvenir shop on board.

Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.

We are delighted that you have chosen the MS Camargue for your upcoming voyage.

We have chartered the MS Camargue from our associates at Croisi-Europe. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 104 passengers and offers elegant and spacious public areas and comfortable and well appointed cabins. She is a charming vessel with a relaxed and informal atmosphere on board and you will find yourself amongst like-minded fellow guests in an English-speaking environment.

The friendly onboard staff will provide you with excellent service and do much to contribute to your enjoyment throughout your journey. Joining you on board will be a Noble Caledonia team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager and Guest Speaker.

We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.

AIR CONDITIONING

All cabins and public areas have individual temperature and air flow controls. For supplementary information or assistance, please contact Reception.

ALARM

An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of an emergency.

ALL ABOARD

The daily programme specifies the ship’s arrival and departure times in the various ports visited each day. When participating in shore excursions, our tour guides will ensure that you return to the ship in time for departure. Should you decide to explore on your own, please return to the ship no later than the ALL ABOARD TIME indicated on that day’s daily programme.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

During your time on board, various announcements will be made by the ship’s crew and our Cruise Director. Please listen out for these announcements as they will be of importance or interest.

There is a gift shop on board with a selection of accessories, souvenirs and traditional and hand-made products. This is located in the reception area.

CABINS

All cabins feature individually controlled air conditioning/heating, en-suite bathroom with shower, satellite television, hairdryer, closet and a safe. Junior Suites feature a separate sitting area. Twin cabins measure 14 square metres and single cabins measure 9 square metres. Cabins on the upper and main decks have twin beds (which can be configured to a double bed – with separate mattresses and bed linen), however, there is one fixed double bed cabin on the upper deck and one fixed double bed cabin on the main deck. Cabins on the Main Deck feature large picture windows which can be opened, and those on the Upper Deck feature French Balcony style (floor to ceiling) sliding windows.

CABIN KEY

At check in you will be issued a cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, we would please ask for you to return your shore pass back to reception in exchange for your cabin key.

The currency on board is the Euro. While Visa and MasterCard are accepted, personal cheques and debit cards are not. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.

DAILY PROGRAMME

Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.

DRESS CODE

During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen, and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a welcome and farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events, for example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie and ladies a dress.

ELECTRICITY

Each cabin is equipped with a European two-pin 220V electrical outlet. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor with you. For safety reasons, the use of electrical irons is not permitted on board.

EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION

Embarkation is approximately 4.00 pm, unless advised otherwise. The official embarkation time will be advised in your final documentation. The official disembarkation time is between 8.30 am to 9.00 am, however your Cruise Director will provide detailed information prior to the end of the cruise. This will include departure transfer information. In the unlikely event of an emergency during your cruise, we ask our guests to remain calm and follow the instructions of the crew. We request that all guests attend the safety drill and carefully review the safety instructions on the inside of their cabin door. Your emergency Muster Station is located on the Sun Deck. For safety reasons, complying with international rules and regulations, life jackets are situated in your cabin. In case of an emergency please use them and wait for crew member’s instructions either in your cabin or at your Muster Station.

FIRST AID

There is no doctor on board, however crew members are trained in first aid and are always available. Medical personnel can be summoned aboard quickly in the case of an emergency. Passengers requiring special medications are advised to bring a supply with them. Please note that no medication of any kind can be handed out on the ship.

HAIRDRYER

Each cabin is equipped with a hairdryer.

HOUSEKEEPING

Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.

LAUNDRY

Please note there is no laundry facility on board so please ensure that you pack accordingly. For safety reasons, it is not permitted to use an iron in your cabin. LIFT There is no lift or chairlift on board.

LOST PROPERTY

Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.

MEALS

The restaurant serves French and European cuisine. All meals are served in a single open sitting. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served on board. Please note that due to galley restrictions, the vessel is unable to offer a choice at each course. Certain dietary requests can be catered for (on request). Please provide any such requests in writing to Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests to the ship’s Hotel Manager upon your embarkation.

MOORING & DOCKING FACILITIES

Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. Views from cabins may occasionally be restricted. On occasion other river cruise vessels may dock alongside the ship. This may restrict cabin views, and you may find that embarking and disembarking necessitates walking through another ship’s reception area, and/or for their passengers to do the same. As you cruise, you may encounter some engine noise and vibrations as the ship negotiates locks. As the ship approaches the lock, a gate opens and the ship enters the lock chamber until the ship is completely inside. The gate behind the ship closes. The lock is then either drained or filled until the water level reaches the same level as the water on the other side of the chamber. Once adjusted, the second gate opens and the ship exits at the lower or higher level of the river.

NEWSPAPERS

Newspapers are not available on board.

OPERATIONAL CHANGES

Despite our planning efforts, there may be times when changes must be made to the daily programme due to circumstances beyond our control such as heavy river traffic or fluctuating water levels. The ship’s Captain and crew will do their utmost to find the best and safest solution. Any changes to the day’s schedule will be communicated as soon as possible. POST Please note that although the reception staff will be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards may be delayed or even lost en-route for which the staff cannot be held liable.

QUESTIONNAIRES

A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this.

QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM

Noble Caledonia has arranged for guests to be provided with individual Quietvox Systems to use on shore excursions for the duration of the cruise. This device enables you to clearly hear the guide’s commentary so you can enjoy each tour to the fullest. The audio device can be found in your cabin in a charger unit on the desk. Please make sure to always re-insert the device once you return to your cabin to ensure it is fully charged for the next day.

RECEPTION

Reception can be contacted 24-hours a day by telephone and is manned during the early hours.

SAFE

Your cabin is equipped with a small safe for your personal use. We recommend placing valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your cabin. Please remember to remove all items from the safe and leave the safe open before disembarking.

SAFETY

Please take careful note of all safety instructions provided to you by the Master and crew of the vessel. Full safety instructions will be provided to you on board.

SMOKING

Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.

SUN DECK

The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges, whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.

TELEPHONE

A telephone is available in your cabin for internal calls only.

VISITORS

Visitors are generally not permitted on the ship. The ship’s operators reserve the right to deny boarding to any visitors.

WATER

Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner.

WI-FI

Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in public areas, however there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted. Please be advised that it is not possible to download large data files.

PLEASE NOTE: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.

The vessel has a total of 54 cabins, comprising of 50 twin bedded cabins and four single cabins with a double bed. All are attractively furnished and feature cable TV, safe, hairdryer, individual air-conditioning and heating controls, ample storage and a dressing table. Twin cabins measure 14 square metres and single cabins measure 9 square metres. Cabins on the Main Deck feature large picture windows which can be opened and those on the Upper Deck feature French Balcony style (floor to ceiling) sliding windows, allowing you to admire the passing scenery from your cabin.

Life On Board

Life Onboard

The friendly onboard staff will provide you with excellent service and do much to contribute to your enjoyment throughout your journey. You will find yourself amongst like-minded guests in an English speaking environment and the atmosphere onboard is relaxed and informal with a comfortable and casual dress code. A daily briefing by the Cruise Director will provide you with information on the next day’s activities and expert English speaking guides will accompany you on the included excursions. In addition you will be accompanied by a Guest Speaker who will provide entertaining and informative talks.

Your Dining

Your Dining

The elegant restaurant is located on the Upper Deck and seats all guests in one sitting in an open seating arrangement. Breakfast is a buffet service with hot and cold dishes on offer and lunch includes two or three courses served to the table in addition to a buffet selection of breads, pasta, salads, cheese and fruit. Dinner is a four course affair and served to your table. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner, and tea and coffee are available in the lounge from 6.00 am to midnight daily.

Your Space

Your Space

Public areas aboard the MS Camargue are both elegantly furnished and spacious. The lounge on the Upper Deck is a relaxing environment in which to admire the passing scenery, socialise and enjoy a drink from the bar and it is here that the resident musician will entertain after a day of exploration. There is also a spacious Sun Deck on board with comfortable deck furniture, the perfect place to relax and appreciate the passing scenery whilst cruising along the Rhone. In addition, there is a small souvenir shop on board.

Ship Directory

Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.

We are delighted that you have chosen the MS Camargue for your upcoming voyage.

We have chartered the MS Camargue from our associates at Croisi-Europe. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 104 passengers and offers elegant and spacious public areas and comfortable and well appointed cabins. She is a charming vessel with a relaxed and informal atmosphere on board and you will find yourself amongst like-minded fellow guests in an English-speaking environment.

The friendly onboard staff will provide you with excellent service and do much to contribute to your enjoyment throughout your journey. Joining you on board will be a Noble Caledonia team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager and Guest Speaker.

We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.

AIR CONDITIONING

All cabins and public areas have individual temperature and air flow controls. For supplementary information or assistance, please contact Reception.

ALARM

An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of an emergency.

ALL ABOARD

The daily programme specifies the ship’s arrival and departure times in the various ports visited each day. When participating in shore excursions, our tour guides will ensure that you return to the ship in time for departure. Should you decide to explore on your own, please return to the ship no later than the ALL ABOARD TIME indicated on that day’s daily programme.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

During your time on board, various announcements will be made by the ship’s crew and our Cruise Director. Please listen out for these announcements as they will be of importance or interest.

There is a gift shop on board with a selection of accessories, souvenirs and traditional and hand-made products. This is located in the reception area.

CABINS

All cabins feature individually controlled air conditioning/heating, en-suite bathroom with shower, satellite television, hairdryer, closet and a safe. Junior Suites feature a separate sitting area. Twin cabins measure 14 square metres and single cabins measure 9 square metres. Cabins on the upper and main decks have twin beds (which can be configured to a double bed – with separate mattresses and bed linen), however, there is one fixed double bed cabin on the upper deck and one fixed double bed cabin on the main deck. Cabins on the Main Deck feature large picture windows which can be opened, and those on the Upper Deck feature French Balcony style (floor to ceiling) sliding windows.

CABIN KEY

At check in you will be issued a cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, we would please ask for you to return your shore pass back to reception in exchange for your cabin key.

The currency on board is the Euro. While Visa and MasterCard are accepted, personal cheques and debit cards are not. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.

DAILY PROGRAMME

Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.

DRESS CODE

During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen, and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a welcome and farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events, for example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie and ladies a dress.

ELECTRICITY

Each cabin is equipped with a European two-pin 220V electrical outlet. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor with you. For safety reasons, the use of electrical irons is not permitted on board.

EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION

Embarkation is approximately 4.00 pm, unless advised otherwise. The official embarkation time will be advised in your final documentation. The official disembarkation time is between 8.30 am to 9.00 am, however your Cruise Director will provide detailed information prior to the end of the cruise. This will include departure transfer information. In the unlikely event of an emergency during your cruise, we ask our guests to remain calm and follow the instructions of the crew. We request that all guests attend the safety drill and carefully review the safety instructions on the inside of their cabin door. Your emergency Muster Station is located on the Sun Deck. For safety reasons, complying with international rules and regulations, life jackets are situated in your cabin. In case of an emergency please use them and wait for crew member’s instructions either in your cabin or at your Muster Station.

FIRST AID

There is no doctor on board, however crew members are trained in first aid and are always available. Medical personnel can be summoned aboard quickly in the case of an emergency. Passengers requiring special medications are advised to bring a supply with them. Please note that no medication of any kind can be handed out on the ship.

HAIRDRYER

Each cabin is equipped with a hairdryer.

HOUSEKEEPING

Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.

LAUNDRY

Please note there is no laundry facility on board so please ensure that you pack accordingly. For safety reasons, it is not permitted to use an iron in your cabin. LIFT There is no lift or chairlift on board.

LOST PROPERTY

Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.

MEALS

The restaurant serves French and European cuisine. All meals are served in a single open sitting. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served on board. Please note that due to galley restrictions, the vessel is unable to offer a choice at each course. Certain dietary requests can be catered for (on request). Please provide any such requests in writing to Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests to the ship’s Hotel Manager upon your embarkation.

MOORING & DOCKING FACILITIES

Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. Views from cabins may occasionally be restricted. On occasion other river cruise vessels may dock alongside the ship. This may restrict cabin views, and you may find that embarking and disembarking necessitates walking through another ship’s reception area, and/or for their passengers to do the same. As you cruise, you may encounter some engine noise and vibrations as the ship negotiates locks. As the ship approaches the lock, a gate opens and the ship enters the lock chamber until the ship is completely inside. The gate behind the ship closes. The lock is then either drained or filled until the water level reaches the same level as the water on the other side of the chamber. Once adjusted, the second gate opens and the ship exits at the lower or higher level of the river.

NEWSPAPERS

Newspapers are not available on board.

OPERATIONAL CHANGES

Despite our planning efforts, there may be times when changes must be made to the daily programme due to circumstances beyond our control such as heavy river traffic or fluctuating water levels. The ship’s Captain and crew will do their utmost to find the best and safest solution. Any changes to the day’s schedule will be communicated as soon as possible. POST Please note that although the reception staff will be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards may be delayed or even lost en-route for which the staff cannot be held liable.

QUESTIONNAIRES

A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this.

QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM

Noble Caledonia has arranged for guests to be provided with individual Quietvox Systems to use on shore excursions for the duration of the cruise. This device enables you to clearly hear the guide’s commentary so you can enjoy each tour to the fullest. The audio device can be found in your cabin in a charger unit on the desk. Please make sure to always re-insert the device once you return to your cabin to ensure it is fully charged for the next day.

RECEPTION

Reception can be contacted 24-hours a day by telephone and is manned during the early hours.

SAFE

Your cabin is equipped with a small safe for your personal use. We recommend placing valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your cabin. Please remember to remove all items from the safe and leave the safe open before disembarking.

SAFETY

Please take careful note of all safety instructions provided to you by the Master and crew of the vessel. Full safety instructions will be provided to you on board.

SMOKING

Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.

SUN DECK

The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges, whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.

TELEPHONE

A telephone is available in your cabin for internal calls only.

VISITORS

Visitors are generally not permitted on the ship. The ship’s operators reserve the right to deny boarding to any visitors.

WATER

Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner.

WI-FI

Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in public areas, however there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted. Please be advised that it is not possible to download large data files.

PLEASE NOTE: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.

Tour Extensions

For those wishing to spend some more time exploring this wonderful region, we are offering the opportunity to join a three night extension in charming Aix-en-Provence.

La Rotonde fountain

The Itinerary

Day 1 St-Remy-de-Provence & Le Jardin de l’Albertas.

Disembark this morning and enjoy a tour of St Remy de Provence. Nestled in the hills of Les Alpilles, the town centre is full of narrow Medieval alleyways, fountains and squares. We will visit Saint Paul de Mausole where Vincent Van Gogh was interned for a year. It was here where he painted 150 canvasses, including “Olive Grove” and “Starry Night”. After lunch in a local restaurant we will visit Le Jardin de l’Albertas. Later transfer to our hotel in Aix-en- Provence. The evening is free to dine independently.

Day 2 Sainte Victoire Mountain & Aix-en-Provence.

After breakfast at our hotel, we will drive to Sainte Victoire Mountain, the subject of many of Paul Cezanne’s paintings. Back in Aix-en-Provence, we have some free time for lunch then will meet our guides for our afternoon walking tour where we discover the town’s leafy boulevards and public squares lined with 17th and 18th century mansions. Fountains hold an important place in the architecture here and the city is also known as the ‘city of a thousand fountains’, a name which it more than lives up to with its many beautiful and intricate marble sculpted fountains that can be found in nearly every square. We finish with a visit to the Granet art museum. Dinner tonight is under your own arrangements.

Day 3 Cassis.

We depart this morning for Cassis where we will enjoy a boat trip through the Calanques National Park. Enjoy some free time for lunch under your own arrangements, after which we will return to Aix-en-Provence for a late afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 4 Aix-en-Provence to London.

Transfer to Marseille airport for the scheduled flight to London.

Prices per person based on double occupancy

24 to 27 May 2020

Category

Price

Twin

£795

Single

£1195

Price Includes: Three nights accommodation in Aix-en-Provence on a bed and breakfast basis, tours as described, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers, lunch on day 1.

Not Included: Travel insurance, lunch on days 2 & 3, all dinners.

Note: Train travel is not available in conjunction with the extensions.

For those wishing to spend some more time exploring this wonderful region, we are offering the opportunity to join a three night extension in charming Aix-en-Provence.

Cassis

The Itinerary

Day 1 London to Aix-en-Provence.

Fly by scheduled flight to Marseille. Transfer to our hotel in Aix-en-Provence and meet this evening for our welcome dinner.

Day 2 Sainte Victoire Mountain & Aix-en-Provence.

After breakfast at our hotel, we will drive to Sainte Victoire Mountain, the subject of many of Paul Cezanne’s paintings. Back in Aix-en-Provence, we have some free time for lunch then will meet our guides for our afternoon walking tour where we discover the town's leafy boulevards and public squares lined with 17th and 18th century mansions. Fountains hold an important place in the architecture here and the city is also known as the ‘city of a thousand fountains’, a name which it more than lives up to with its many beautiful and intricate marble sculpted fountains that can be found in nearly every square. We finish with a visit to the Granet art museum. Dinner tonight is under your own arrangements.

Day 3 Cassis.

We depart this morning for Cassis where we will enjoy a boat trip through the Calanques National Park. Here long narrow deep fjord like inlets have cut into the limestone cliffs. Enjoy some free time for lunch under your own arrangements, after which we will return to Aix-en-Provence for the late afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 4 St Remy-de-Provence.

After breakfast we will enjoy a tour of St-Remy-de-Provence. Nestled in the hills of Les Alpilles, the town centre is full of narrow Medieval alleyways, fountains and squares. We will visit Saint Paul de Mausole where Vincent Van Gogh was interned for a year. It was here where he painted 150 canvasses, including “Olive Grove” and “Starry Night”. After lunch in a local restaurant we will transfer to the MS Camargue moored in Avignon.

Prices per person based on double occupancy

21 to 24 May 2020

Category

Price

Twin

£795

Single

£1195

Price Includes: Three nights accommodation in Aix-en-Provence on a bed and breakfast basis, tours as described, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers, dinner on Day 1, lunch on Day 4.

Not Included: Travel insurance, lunch and dinner on Days 2 & 3.

Note: Train travel is not available in conjunction with the extensions.

Book with Confidence

Speak to one of our advisors
on 020 7752 0000

The air holiday packages shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 3108. Please see our booking conditions for more information.ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services shown on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking.